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EDISCSCULPTDegenerative disc disease is the slow degeneration of the intervertebral discs; it often occurs with age. It can cause a variety of disc conditions, such as bulging discs and herniated discs. Age, working a physical job, obesity, and smoking are all risk factors for developing this condition. Degenerative disc disease might just affect a single disc, or it could cause problems in several. The lower back, or lumbar spine, is the most commonly affected location.
Often, this condition can be treated using conservative treatments, or even just lifestyle changes. Physical therapy will generally be the cornerstone of any treatment regimen; it may be used on its own or in conjunction with other treatments. In addition, medication may be used. This may be over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen, or epidural steroid injections.
If these treatments aren't enough, laser back surgery or open back surgery can be used. In general, laser back surgery is the best of the two because it is associated with a shorter recovery time and a lower risk of some side effects. After the surgery, physical therapy will be used to help patients regain their strength and mobility, as well as prevent the recurrence of future problems.
Lifestyle Changes
If you have degenerative disc disease, you can reduce the risk of developing problems in other discs, and control your current symptoms, by making some lifestyle changes. These lifestyle changes will also promote better overall health. Patients should:
Often, this condition can be treated using conservative treatments, or even just lifestyle changes. Physical therapy will generally be the cornerstone of any treatment regimen; it may be used on its own or in conjunction with other treatments. In addition, medication may be used. This may be over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen, or epidural steroid injections.
If these treatments aren't enough, laser back surgery or open back surgery can be used. In general, laser back surgery is the best of the two because it is associated with a shorter recovery time and a lower risk of some side effects. After the surgery, physical therapy will be used to help patients regain their strength and mobility, as well as prevent the recurrence of future problems.
Lifestyle Changes
If you have degenerative disc disease, you can reduce the risk of developing problems in other discs, and control your current symptoms, by making some lifestyle changes. These lifestyle changes will also promote better overall health. Patients should:
- Stretch and exercise regularly (under the guidance of a physician)
- Use good posture - poor posture can't cause disc problems, but it can make symptoms work
- Cease smoking
- If obese, lose 10% of body weight
- When lifting heavy objects, lift carefully, and always from the legs
To schedule a consultation about your back pain or disc problems, please click below or call the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center at (646) 374-1799.
info@dattaendoscopic.com